Dept. of Commerce finds $195K in missing money at Ohio State Fair

ajc.com

Most people don’t expect to walk out of the Ohio State Fair richer than they were when they walked in. The Ohio Department of Commerce’s Division of Unclaimed Funds’ goal is to change that.

This year, from July 24 to August 4, the Division found 533 claims, returning a total of $195,118.89 in missing money. Last year, staff located 656 claims for a total of $336,000.

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This money comes from unclaimed funds, which is money or rights to money that may have been dormant or forgotten. Generally, these funds come in the form of checking or savings accounts, rent or utility deposits, uncashed checks or insurance policies, unclaimed safe deposit box items or undelivered stock certificates.

“Each year, we make great efforts to reconnect people with their money through advertisements and participating in outreach events. The Ohio Fair is the climax of our efforts as it provides us the opportunity to connect with people from all across the state,” Akil Hardy, superintendent of the Division of Unclaimed Funds said. “We had a successful time at the fair this year, and we look forward to returning in 2020.”

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In the 2019 Fiscal Year, Division staff have returned $136 million to Ohio residents, paying 36,910 claims. Currently, the Division is safeguarding $3 billion in forgotten money.

Ohioans can check for unclaimed funds online or by calling 877-644-6823.

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